Bubbl.us - Simple Mind Mapping

Bubbl.us is a very simple mind mapping service that helps thinkers lay out their thoughts in an organized and concrete manner. The visual nature of the maps includes colorful displays and logical shapes, yet is slightly stiff. The stiff appearance was created on purpose by the developers who decided that extra bells and whistles would take away from the ease of a simple brainstorming tool that is not meant to be used for "idea visualization." The maps can be used as a collaborative tool as they are easily shared and emailed online. Maps can also be saved and embedded in a blog or website to share with many viewers. These options are perfect for group brainstorming and working on a theme over a long period of time.

"bubbl.us uses a simple user interface. You can brainstorm while barely touching the mouse. Our main goal was to create simple yet powerful interface. Many websites or programs geared towards idea visualization are way too complex. There are simply too many buttons. We all know that no one voluntarily reads documentation."

For people who are not computer saavy, this is a great brainstorming tool. Users do not need to think hard to figure it out and the results are clear and usable.

Why does the site avoid idea visualization instead of figuring out a way to achieve it in an easier way?